Tenerife boasts an excellent hospital in Santa Cruz and one of the best hospitals in Spain a 15 minute airlift away in las Palmas.
Local chemists here sells, what we in the UK would class as, prescription drugs over the counter. You don't need to see a doctor or have a prescription before you buy many of them. If you do buy medicines over the counter, make sure you read the information carefully on the packaging.
The main problem you're likely to face here is sunburn or maybe heat exhaustion which will be followed by vomiting. So maybe you could check with your GP what's the best thing to do if that happens. Whether you're inclined to burn or not, use good high factor protective creams as the sun really can be fierce here for most of the day, even on the feet as the beaches get very hot aswell. Also drink plenty of non alcoholic cold drinks through the day to keep you topped up .
You can use the water to brush your teeth but it is not safe for drinking, bottled water costs about 2 Euros for a 5 litre bottle. Medical attention even free at hospitals or paid for at medical centres are at a very high standard. Fees at medical centres are payable immediatly. Obtain a receipt to forward to your medical insurance company. See Form 111 below.
Take your prescription medication with you.
Popular over the counter medication is available from pharmacies. Most medicines are far cheaper in Spain than in England and available over the counter
Any medicines prescribed by a local Doctor have to be paid for.
MEDICAL CENTRE
Playa de las Americas
Centros Medicos del Sur Carreterra Gen
Tel: 922 79 10 00
Puerto de la Cruz
Medical Centre: 24 Hour English speaking doctors: Tel: 900 100 090 (free call)
Santa Cruz
Hospital General de Tenerife
Tel: 922 65 21 52 You have to pay for dental treatment, unless you have private health insurance that covers dental work. You simply need to make an appointment and take a form of ID with you. Generally Dentist are 15 - 20 % cheaper than the UK.
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 21 November 2007 )
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Medical Info 
